Glass and glass-ceramic matrix composites

Abstract

The fabrication, properties and applications of glass and glass-ceramic matrix composites are considered, focusing on both dispersion- and fibre-reinforced systems. A great variety of such composites has been developed in the last 30 years, many systems exhibiting outstanding thermomechanical properties with high potential for structural applications. Although some composite systems have achieved commercial exploitation, several challenges remain for future developments, which currently limit their wider application. These are mainly related to the lack of reproducible and cost-effective processing techniques. In particular, very limited R&D work has been carried out focusing on manufacturing of engineering components and large, complex shaped structures. Further developments are also required in the area of joining of glass composites to other materials, such as stainless steel and structural ceramics.